In brief
The nation observed full state honors at his funeral, with prominent leaders and foreign dignitaries gathering to honor a legacy of economic progress and humility.
In a significant display of respect, India held a state funeral for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92. Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was noted as the architect of India's economic liberalization. His passing on Thursday prompted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to acknowledge Singh as one of India's "most distinguished leaders," and he attended the ceremonies in Delhi, underscoring Singh's contributions to the nation.Mourners filled the streets as Singh's coffin, adorned with an Indian flag and floral garlands, was taken through the city to the cremation grounds, accompanied by a military honor guard and a 21-gun salute. His eldest daughter, reflecting a personal loss amid the national mourning, lit his funeral pyre, witnessed by high-profile figures, including President Droupadi Murmu and attendees from global arenas, such as Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius' Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful.In a national declaration, seven days of mourning followed Singh's death, with Modi emphasizing Singh's wisdom and humility during his tenure. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also expressed his deep respect, calling Singh a "mentor and guide." Global leaders, too, acknowledged Singh's impact, including US President Joe Biden, who remarked that Singh's leadership allowed for unprecedented Indo-American cooperation.Singh was known for reshaping India's economic landscape, taking bold steps that reduced poverty and positioned India as a faster-growing global economy. In a powerful statement from 1991, he had proclaimed, "No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come," encapsulating his foresight and dedication to progress.He was the first Sikh to occupy India's highest office and formally apologized for the 1984 riots, which resulted in the tragic loss of around 3,000 Sikh lives. Despite being re-elected following his first term, Singh's second term faced challenges due to corruption allegations, which many believe contributed to the Congress party's significant defeat in the 2014 elections.As India reflects on Singh's life and legacy, his contributions to economic reform continue to resonate, showcasing a journey of perseverance and dedication to his country.
